Trojans unveil new logo

By Rudy Coggins
Published in Sports on August 3, 2006 2:14 PM

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MOUNT OLIVE -- A tedious and nearly year-long project earned its final approval Wednesday afternoon.

Mount Olive College athletics director Jeff Eisen, who has just begun his second year at the school, unveiled the Trojans' new logo before faculty, fans and fellow athletics staff members. The sharp, three-colored graphic -- designed by North Carolina artist Jordan Sain -- drew applause and praise from those in attendance.

"We're excited about it," said Eisen.

A year ago, Eisen and his staff embarked on a department retreat to discuss ways of improving the athletics program and marketing the school. One item -- a consistent logo for all teams -- constantly surfaced in the discussions.

The school had numerous logos, but none seemed to be used on a regular basis.

"We did not really have a consistent logo because different teams were using their own logos," said Eisen. "We felt it was important for us to convey a uniform message."

Eisen spearheaded the search to find a graphic artist to compose a new logo for the rapidly-growing Division II school. Through different conversations, Eisen received a referral to Sane and eventually viewed some of his artwork.

The two developed a working relationship and traded ideas as the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months. Fans, parents and players got a brief glimpse of the logo during the Carolinas-Virginia Athletics Conference men's and women's basketball tournaments at Kornegay Arena.

Eisen received nothing but positive feedback.

"At that time, there were still some minor revisions to be made, but we were satisfied with the project," said Eisen. "It's hard with something like this to get everybody to agree because everybody has their own opinion.

"As we went through the changes, I kept the coaches informed and got their opinions. We kept refining things and getting more input. It was truly a group effort as we went forward."

Sane finished the project in May and college president Dr. J. William Byrd approved the logo once the last revisions had been made.

"I wanted to create an identity that would stand the test of time," said Sain. "The Trojan helmet is a reflection of the old athletic mark, but now it is bolder and more powerful."

Eisen also introduced a line of apparel with the logo during the short ceremony. He plans to send out a flyer to alumni and parents of current players to make them aware of the school's new "look." When fans attend games this season, they'll see the logo on the players' uniforms.

"We've never sold apparel at an athletic event and we're going to start doing that at the concession stands during volleyball and basketball season, especially," said Eisen. "It's very attractive on clothing and I think it's going to be very popular with our alumni, fans and students."